But Leicester’s hit back through a David Nugent penalty and Esteban Cambiasso equalised before Jamie Vardy and a Ulloa penalty secured the win.

It was an incredible turnaround in fortunes for Leicester, who seemed to be heading to defeat with just 25 minutes of an unpredictable and breathless match remaining.

The turning point was a controversial second-half penalty. Referee Mark Clattenburg allowed Vardy to barge Rafael just outside the box but, as the two players continued their battle in the area, the United defender brought down the striker clumsily and the official pointed towards the spot.

United’s players protested – and captain Wayne Rooney continued to do so after the final whistle – but Nugent retained his composure to drill his 50th league goal for the club down the middle.

Within less than two minutes, United’s defence lapsed again as former Inter Milan midfielder Cambiasso drilled an unexpected and dramatic equaliser low into the net.

The home fans were buoyant and the game now belonged to the galvanised Foxes as United crumbled in the final 10 minutes. Ritchie De Laet dispossessed substitute Juan Mata on the right and galloped forward before finding Vardy, who finished coolly to give his side the lead.

Better was to come for Leicester as they made sure of the three points – which move them to sixth in the league – when United conceded a second penalty.

Tyler Blackett was the culprit, with the defender also red carded for his rash challenge on Vardy. Ulloa stepped up to score his fifth league goal and spark wild celebrations.